Industries in
Eastern North Carolina

Advanced Manufacturing

With a diverse industry reach, eastern North Carolina has the resources manufacturing companies need to bring their products to market. With a rich history in tobacco, textiles, and furniture manufacturing, the industry has evolved into advanced methods through innovation and training.

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Aerospace/Aviation

In 1903, eastern North Carolina was home to the Wright Brothers’ first flight. Now – 120 years later – the region is still leading the way in aviation through our booming aerospace industry. Dozens of companies that provide manufacturing, research, or support to the aerospace and aviation sector are located in eastern North Carolina, taking advantage of the area’s plentiful resources and assets for the industry.

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Biotechnology/ Pharmaceutical

The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in eastern North Carolina is equipped with a robust talent pool and established transportation network. As a hub for medical, commercial, and educational hub, this region has more than 3,000 people working in biotechnology and pharma manufacturing occupations.

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Boatbuilding

Positioned along North Carolina’s stunning coastline, the ENC region is the marine manufacturing capital of the East Coast. Boat and other marine-related manufacturers leverage the area’s strength in other clusters—plastics, metals, and wood— in addition to producing navigational equipment and electrical components. The eastern North Carolina area is home to nearly 50 elite boatbuilders and hundreds of marine-related businesses.

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Defense

Committed to technology and innovation, eastern North Carolina is a hub for the defense industry. Plus, our region is home to three active military bases, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Station New River, and Marine Corps Air Force Base Cherry Point. In addition, East Carolina University has an entire department dedicated to this research.

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Food & Beverage

With a rich history in agriculture and food production, eastern North Carolina is well-positioned to support food and beverage-related manufacturers and distributors. From the creation of Pepsi to the culinary items produced by award-winning chefs, eastern North Carolina is home to a thriving food and beverage scene.

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